On Monday, Governor Wes Moore announced a proposed $3 million investment in his Fiscal Year 2027 budget to support economic development along the Purple Line corridor during a visit to the Flower Theatre in Silver Spring.
The funding would expand Montgomery County’s Facade Improvement Program to help renovate storefronts and restore historic buildings located within a half mile of Purple Line stations, with the goal of strengthening local business districts as the transit line nears completion.
State officials said the program would support exterior upgrades to older commercial properties, helping create more attractive business corridors and encouraging additional private investment. Communities expected to benefit include Long Branch, which was recently designated a Maryland Main Street community. The improvements are intended to help small businesses remain competitive and prepared for increased activity when the Purple Line opens.
In addition to the proposed facade funding, the state is continuing to support businesses affected by Purple Line construction through the Purple Line Small Business Grant Program, which provides grants of up to $50,000 for expenses such as payroll, rent and utilities. Construction of the 16 mile light rail line connecting Bethesda, Silver Spring, College Park and New Carrollton is nearing completion, with most track installed and all stations currently under construction.
